Bowery (J, Z)
It’s the Bowery! For tourists and locals alike, this area is filled with hidden gems. In general it’s got a grungy lower-east-side vibe, with easy access to Little Italy, and some Chinatown vibes.
This is a nightlife hub* with a bunch of bars and restaurants, and of course you have to catch a show at The Bowery Ballroom, literally just outside the station.
But there’s also so much more to explore:
Freeman’s Alley: This a hidden street art delight. At the of the alley is Freeman’s restaurant and Banzarbar, which are oddly upscale given they’re tucked at the end of a street art alley. The food and drinks are great, though, and they’ve got a hidden-gem vibe.
Elizabeth Street Garden: Small and statue-filled. There are some chairs about; you can sit down with a book or just wander through.
Eldridge & Broome St: This is the intersection with the dangling shoes.
Citizen M Rooftop + Secret Art: Take the elevator to the rooftop. Enjoy the views at the bar. Now here’s the secret: take the stairs down. The staircase is filled with local art! It’s like an extension of Freeman’s Alley, but, you know, inside a hotel staircase. Similar hotel rooftop in the area: The Moxy + well, a bunch, you’ll find them.
Little Italy: Ok, this one isn’ t “hidden gem,” but it is easy to access off this station - Little Italy is basically Mulberry St between Broome and Canal.
*The Box: If you can get in (*cough cough, Project 472 had her bachelorette here*) it’s probably the wildest theatrical nightlife show NYC has to offer. Ignore the bad reviews, they’re mostly from people who, well, couldn’t get in.
Eldridge & Broome
Chinese influence in Bowery
Epistrophy, on Mott, is one of many restaurants to try in the area.
Freeman’s Alley
Elizabeth St Garden